"It is with deep sadness that BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) confirms that a colleague, a contractor from Independent Mining Services (IMS), has ... passed away as a result of injuries sustained in an incident that occurred during maintenance work at the Goonyella Riverside Mine in Queensland on 5 August 2017," a spokesperson for the company said.

"We extend our deepest sympathies and support to his family, colleagues and friends at this very sad and difficult time."

The spokesperson said a full investigation was under way and BMA would continue to work closely with relevant authorities.

"Support services are in place for family, friends, the contractors involved and all of our people at Goonyella Riverside Mine," they said.

Queensland Ambulance Service was called to the site about 1am Saturday morning. He was was first taken to Mackay Base Hospital and then to Townsville Base Hospital for the emergency surgery.